Beans Porridge Recipe
Beans porridge is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings comfort with every bite. It’s perfect for any meal of the day, offering a blend of tender beans and savory seasonings that create a satisfying, nutritious dish. This version is made with beans, aromatic onions, a touch of bell pepper, and palm oil for richness, topped with smoked fish to complete the meal. It’s a true staple in many households and a great option for a cozy gathering or family dinner.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Beans (any variety) | 2 cups |
| Onion, chopped | 1 medium |
| Bell pepper, blended | 1 medium |
| Palm oil | 2-3 tablespoons |
| Salt | To taste |
| Smoked fish (optional) | 1 fillet (or to taste) |
Procedure
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Prepare the Beans: Begin by rinsing the beans under cold water. In a large pot, add the beans along with enough water to cover them completely. Season with salt to taste. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer the beans for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until they are tender and fully cooked. Add more water if needed, as the beans should remain submerged throughout the cooking process.
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Add Aromatics and Palm Oil: Once the beans are tender, add the chopped onion and blended bell pepper into the pot. Stir in the palm oil, which will infuse the dish with its rich, earthy flavor. Continue to cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
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Smoked Fish Touch: If using smoked fish, gently flake it and add it to the pot during the last 5 minutes of cooking. The fish adds a delightful smokiness and depth to the dish, complementing the beans and seasoning perfectly.
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Final Adjustments: Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt if needed. Stir to combine all the flavors, then allow the beans to rest for a few minutes before serving.
Allergen Information
- Fish: This recipe contains smoked fish. If you’re allergic to seafood, feel free to omit the fish or substitute it with a plant-based protein or smoked tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Palm Oil: If you have any concerns with the use of palm oil, you can substitute with other oils, such as coconut or olive oil, depending on your dietary preference.
Dietary Preferences
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the smoked fish and replace it with a plant-based protein like tofu or seitan for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as the beans and all other ingredients do not contain gluten.
- Dairy-Free: The recipe does not contain dairy products, making it suitable for a dairy-free diet.
- Low-Fat: While palm oil is used, you can reduce the quantity or opt for a lighter cooking oil if you’re looking to cut back on fats.
Advice
For extra flavor, consider adding a bit of hot pepper or seasoning cubes to spice up the beans porridge. This dish pairs wonderfully with fried plantains or steamed rice. If you don’t have smoked fish, try adding a little shrimp or chicken for a different protein. Leftovers also make for a delicious lunch the next day, as the beans continue to absorb the flavors.
Conclusion
Beans Porridge is a satisfying, nutritious dish that delivers both comfort and flavor. It’s versatile, easily adaptable to your taste preferences, and sure to please everyone at the table. Whether served as a
